August 25, 2020 12.41 pm This story is over 43 months old

Two South Kesteven swimming pools to reopen

You’ll have to arrive ready to swim
There have been a range of problems behind the closures
By Local Democracy Reporter

Swimming pools at two leisure centres in South Kesteven will reopen for the first time in almost six months.

The pools at the Meres Leisure Centre in Grantham will reopen on Tuesday, September 1, and the Deepings Leisure Centre on Monday, September 7.

Leisure centres were forced to close in March when the country went into coronavirus lockdown, but are now beginning to return to business.

The reopening of Grantham and Deepings pools is part of a phased return, with the council prepared to consider the situation of Bourne and Stamford if this trial is successful.

Swim sessions will now be available for 45-60 minute slots depending on the timetable, which can be booked seven days in advance on the 1Life website.

Access to the pools will be via a one-way system, and frequent cleaning schedules will be conducted each day.

Lockers will not be in use, but bags will be allowed poolside, and anyone using the pool will have to arrive ready to swim.

Changing rooms and showers will be available but with limited numbers due to social distancing measures.

The centres are owned by South Kesteven District Council and managed by 1Life, who reopened its business earlier this month.

Cabinet member for growth and leisure at SKDC, Barry Dobson, said: “There has been a great response to the centres reopening for gym sessions and fitness classes and we’re delighted that the pools will be back as well.

“Going for a swim will be a little different, but changes are in place to protect customers and staff and help prevent the spread of coronavirus.

“Without them the pools could not reopen and I’m sure people will get used to them as they welcome the opportunity to go swimming again.”